An iconic Hamilton home with almost 90 years of history could soon see sleek modern updates if a prominent restaurant couple’s development application gets approved.
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Chef Jason Coats and wife Katie, known for venues like Maya Mexican and Il Molo, have submitted plans to transform parts of the roofline of the stately 1930s Dickson Terrace estate they acquired earlier this year. Though seeking to preserve the grand exterior, their proposed internal facelift somehow contradicts codes for protecting traditional buildings.
According to planning documents, the “partial demolition of the roof form, and other components as illustrated….do not comply with acceptable outcome AO1.1 of the (council’s) traditional building character (demolition) overlay code.”
Plans filed detailed demolition of parts of the unique roofline to allow for modern skylights. However, the overall brick exterior and original charm would remain intact.
Proposed additions lean into the home’s lush riverfront setting, including an enviable pool and sauna. This would complement grand existing spaces like formal dining and a studio ripe for conversion.
The Hamilton home itself boasts an illustrious past beyond its striking architecture. Famed Brisbane architect Mervyn Rylance imbued his riverfront Mediterranean design with custom details to maximise natural light and connection with the outdoors.
Prominent Queensland barrister Tony Morris, who was only the second owner of the property, called it a secluded family retreat for around 35 years after purchasing it in 1988 for a modest $480,000. Prior owners even took advantage of its fortress-like walls which served as a neighbourhood bomb shelter back in the day.
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Whilst contradicting heritage demolition codes, the couple feel their vision balances preservation and updates befitting such a distinctive home. Having stood strong since the ’30s, including weathering use as a bomb shelter, a touch of tasteful modernisation could give it new life under the stewardship of Chef Coats.
Published 5-December-2023
